TORONTO, ON – The Ontario Government and the Government of Canada have announced joint investments of more than $777,000 into ten breweries across the province, including eight locally owned craft breweries.

The funding from Going Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial program supporting Canada’s agri-food and agri-products sectors, will go towards a variety of projects including equipment purchases and upgrades, environmental assessments, and staff training.

The breweries – including Hockley Valley Brewing, Haliburton Highlands Brewing, Toboggan Brewing, Niagara Oast House Brewers, Beau’s All Natural Brewing, Bellwoods Brewery, Wellington Brewery, StoneHammer Brewing, Labatt Brewing and Sleeman Breweries – are among a group of 223 food, beverage, and agricultural businesses in Ontario that have been awarded grants from the program.

“The OCB applauds the government for its long track record supporting the growth of the local craft beer industry in Ontario,” said Garnet Pratt Siddall, chair of the Ontario Craft Brewers, in a statement. “Our local craft beer is some of the best in the world, made by people with passion and a commitment to beer and to their communities. This funding is the next step in helping some of our brewers continue creating jobs, investing in their businesses, and supporting their communities.”